Practice Leader-Operations

Hellmuth Obata & Kassabaum, Inc•Seattle, WA

30d•$170,000 - $200,000•Hybrid

About The Position

HOK's Seattle office is seeking a Practice Leader with an operations focus to help elevate and expand our studio. This role will oversee staffing, financial performance, and project planning in partnership with our project managers. Key responsibilities include developing talent, strengthening project delivery, and ensuring strong team chargeability. We are looking for a strategic leader who can drive operational excellence while supporting our efforts to grow the practice, and cultivate a high-performing, collaborative culture rooted in design excellence.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in architecture or equivalent in education or experience required. Master's degree preferred.
15 years' experience in architectural practice with prior management experience in all phases of projects through post-occupancy.
Licensed Architect with current registration in your region required, if licensure is offered in your region.

Nice To Haves

NCARB registration preferred.
LEED accreditation or Green Associate preferred.

Responsibilities

In collaboration with Practice Principals, develops and executes strategic practice planning and marketing strategies.
Assists Design Principal and Marketing Principal in the organization, budget and delivery of design competitions.
Acts as mentor to project managers and other practice staff by providing technical expertise and leadership.
Acts as mentor by coaching and motivating design teams and individuals; fostering an environment of mutual respect and trust among members of the group as it grows and develops.
Takes personal responsibility for fostering a green workplace through sustainable work practices.
May act as Project Manager of assigned projects.
Fosters a culture of external and internal client service.
Participates in developing annual business plan for the practice.
Identifies new business opportunities while developing current client relationships. Listens for and seeks out new projects which may exist or are being formulated.
Participate in selected marketing and business development opportunities.
Develop and maintain positive relationships with consultants, contractors and jurisdictional/approval agencies.
Assist in development of fee proposals for marketing proposals.
Participates in local or state professional associations, maintains active membership, and attends conferences valued by clients as appropriate.
Prepares and delivers design staff evaluations; responsible for performance development, compensation decision-making and allocation processes of department.
Supports diversity, HOKU programs and develops continuing education opportunities (e.g. site visits, lectures, road trips) to expose design staff to influences which will stimulate design creativity and innovation.
Participates in interviews and recruiting of professional staff.
Encourages staff exploration and innovation to achieve project design excellence and continual improvement.